Experiences of novice student team members in evidence synthesis: Study protocol for a study within a review.

Background: Evidence synthesis plays a vital role in healthcare research, informing clinical practice and policy. Increasingly, students are involved in reviews, yet their experiences, including the challenges and facilitators for participation, remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the barriers and opportunities encountered by novice student team members in evidence synthesis. Methods: This study is embedded within the Study Within A Review (SWAR) framework and will use a mixed-methods approach. Students in health-related disciplines engaged in or having just completed their first evidence synthesis will be recruited through academic networks and word of mouth. Data will be collected primarily via focus groups, in addition to a short, embedded survey. Thematic analysis will be employed to analyse qualitative data, while descriptive statistics will be used for survey responses. Results: The study aims to describe experiences of students involved in evidence synthesis, identifying barriers and facilitators related to their participation. Findings will inform recommendations for improving evidence synthesis training, mentorship, and student engagement strategies. Conclusion: Understanding student experiences in evidence synthesis may inform the development of targeted training and support mechanisms. The findings will provide valuable insights for academic institutions and research teams seeking to optimise student involvement in evidence synthesis.